Cameroon plans to boost its cement production capacity to 12.7 million tons by the end of 2025 with three new plants in Édéa. These developments aim to meet local demand and support exports. The cement industry is becoming more competitive with new players entering the market, but prices remain high due to importing costs for clinker.
Cameroon is on track to elevate its cement production capacity to 12.7 million tons by the end of 2025 by introducing three new cement plants in Édéa, located in the Sanaga-Maritime department. This enhancement aims to satisfy local demand and facilitate expansion into international markets. The country’s Minister of Industry, Mines, and Technological Development, Fuh Calistus Gentry, recently assessed the ongoing developments at the construction sites and adjacent quarries.
The first plant, Sino Africaine (Sinafcim), is under construction and set to produce 1 million tons annually, employing 200 workers, 90% of whom are Cameroonian. The initial batch of cement is projected for April 2025. The Central Africa Cement (CAC) plant, which has been operational for several months, boasts a production capacity of 1.5 million tons per year and currently employs 100 individuals, with a future plan to increase to 200 employees.
The third plant, Yousheng Cement, situated along the Dibamba River near Douala, is also in the construction phase and will have an annual capacity of 1.8 million tons. Once operational, the addition of these three plants will enhance Cameroon’s production capacity by 4.3 million tons, surpassing the local demand of 8 million tons and enabling exports.
The expansion signifies a pivotal shift in Cameroon’s cement industry, transitioning from dominance by Cimencam, which held a monopoly for 48 years with a 2.3 million tons production capacity, to a more diverse and competitive landscape featuring nine production units. New competitors like Dangote Cement and Cimaf have enriched the market since 2015.
Despite the growth in production capacity, cement prices remain elevated, with a 50 kg bag costing between 5,100 and 5,300 FCFA in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé. Producers and government officials attribute these prices to the high costs associated with procuring clinker, a key ingredient in cement manufacturing.
In summary, Cameroon is significantly boosting its cement production capacity to 12.7 million tons by 2025 through the establishment of three new plants. This not only meets local demand but also positions the country for international cement exports. The increased competition in the market following the end of Cimencam’s monopoly has created a more favorable environment for consumers, although cement prices remain high due to clinker importation costs.
Original Source: www.businessincameroon.com
